De Boinville to cut Jockeys’ Cup deficit on day one of Cheltenham

We take a quick look at the main rides for the leading David Power Jockeys’ Cup jockeys on day one of the Cheltenham Festival following the six-day entry stage. 

Harry Skelton 

Best ride: L’Eau Du Sud in the Arkle 

Harry Skelton has a commanding lead at the top of the Jockeys’ Cup standings but his day one hopes may rest on L’Eau Du Sud. He might not be able to topple the exciting favourite Majborough but a good round of jumping on ground that suits should ensure at least six points. Other potential points could come from Take No Chances in the Mares’ Hurdle. She beat Kargese at Ascot when last seen and her previous form when third at the track has since been boosted by Joyeuse. 

Harry Cobden 

Best ride: Burdett Road in the Champion Hurdle 

It looks a tough day for Harry Cobden as he bids to chase down Skelton, but he is likely to take over from Sam Twiston-Davies on Burdett Road having ridden him to Greatwood success here in November. A place looks the best he can hope for, however. Stay Away Fay has ‘Festival form’ and could run well in the Ultima if back to his best following a run over hurdles. 

Sam Twiston-Davies 

Best ride: Broadway Boy in the Ultima 

Like Cobden, Sam Twiston-Davies might be fighting it out for scraps on Tuesday with no big-name rides, however Broadway Boy is prominent in the Ultima market after a series of good efforts in defeat this season; a test of stamina like this could suit ideally. Similarly, Liam Swagger could run well in the Fred Winter if reunited with the Cotswold-based jockey. 

Nico De Boinville 

Best ride: Constitution Hill in the Champion Hurdle 

The banker for many on day one, Constitution Hill faces a potentially tougher task than seemed likely a month ago but may still have too much in reserve to see off Brighterdaysahead, State Man and Lossiemouth. Impressive Betfair Hurdle winner Joyeuse has been added to the Mares’ Hurdle in another boost for De Boinville’s hopes, while Jango Baie could pick up points in the Arkle if taking in that race rather than the Brown Advisory a day later. 

Conclusion 

Day one honours can go the way of Nico De Boinville who should start the four-day meeting with a bang thanks to Constitution Hill, Joyeuse and Jango Baie. Can he continue in that vein for the rest of the week, however?